Balogun expected controversy after World Cup ban waived
Summary
United States soccer player Folarin Balogun avoided a one-game suspension after receiving a red card at the World Cup because FIFA delayed his ban for a year. This decision caused controversy, especially after it was revealed that President Donald Trump and White House officials had lobbied FIFA about the suspension.Key Facts
- Balogun was sent off for serious foul play in a match against Bosnia-Herzegovina and was supposed to miss the next game.
- FIFA's disciplinary committee suspended his one-game ban for a year, allowing him to play against Belgium.
- President Donald Trump and White House officials reportedly lobbied FIFA to lift Balogun’s suspension.
- UEFA, Europe’s football authority, called FIFA’s decision "unprecedented, incomprehensible and unjustifiable."
- Balogun said he anticipated controversy and noticed nervousness among his teammates.
- The U.S. team lost 4-1 to Belgium in the game Balogun played.
- FIFA’s disciplinary committee did not explain why they delayed the suspension.
- Another player, England’s Jarell Quansah, also received a red card but was given a standard two-match ban by FIFA.
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